Finding acceleration due to gravity: take 2
I’m teaching the AS content for the AQA Physics A-level for the second time this year, and have recently had my students carry out the core practical to “find a value for g using a free fall method”. I used the same approach as I used last year, using a “g-ball” as shown in the video below, but have simplified the worksheet that I used. (The one I used last year asked the students to carry out parts of the uncertainty analysis as they were going along, whereas this one separates data collection and data analysis more clearly). If you want a copy, click the link: acceleration-due-to-gravity-worksheet (Thanks to David Brown, @staffdb66 from Twitter, for spotting a now-corrected typo).
This simpler worksheet seemed to work much better – the students were able to follow the instructions for collecting the data and I had 14 students, working in pairs, complete the practical successfully in a 50 minute lesson.
I’d welcome any comments on improving the worksheet further.
Great video for looking at the different methods to measure g. Can be used on so many levels, either for teachers to focus their teaching, technicians to set up the experiments or for students to use to research alternative methods and look at the pros and cons of each one. Production is great and professional: so much better than others you can find on YouTube.
The worksheet to accompany is great and is linked the the opportunities for CPACs for student’s practical files while focusing on error work prac skills and for paper 3.
A great resource for the required pracs for new or experienced teachers. Looking forward to seeing videos for the other 11 pracs. Thank You!
Excellent video, great work Alom, after watching it, I ordered two sets of G-ball and did this experiment with my AS level physics students, they enjoyed it.
Fantastic worksheet created.
Please keep doing good work.